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Tina Robertson

Fun Nature Study Ideas and a Free Nature Tracker

April 30, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

I have a printable with some fun nature study ideas and a free tracker to encourage 1000 hours of nature study.

Growing up today and learning is quite different than in years past.

While true there are many opportunities to learn about technology, we must address the loss of time children spend outdoors.

Fun Nature Study Ideas and a Free Nature Tracker

We do try our best to keep the balance but there is a loss of unstructured play and connection with nature.

So nature study is more than taking a walk outdoors.

It can be a unit study which covers many subjects or it can strictly be a science topic. Besides when you have a list of nature study ideas, it’s easier to find something at your fingertips.

First, look at some of the best books I’ve rounded up because a beautiful books encourages nature study.

NATURE BOOKS FOR KIDS

I prefer to use living books when possible, then add reference type of books too when I find them.

6 Nature Study Books and Resources

Add one of these resources or books to your study about nature. They all give you a starting point or use one or two of them as a nature spine.

Nature Anatomy: The Curious Parts and Pieces of the Natural World

See the world in a whole new way! Acclaimed illustrator Julia Rothman combines art and science in this exciting and educational guide to the structure, function, and personality of the natural world. Explore the anatomy of a jellyfish, the inside of a volcano, monarch butterfly migration, how sunsets work, and much more. Rothman’s whimsical illustrations are paired with interactive activities that encourage curiosity and inspire you to look more closely at the world all around you.

Handbook of Nature Study

The Handbook of Nature Study is a classic Charlotte Mason text. A big book full of information on pretty much every area of nature study from tools to birds, weather, and rocks.

The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady

This beautifully packaged facsimile of Edith Holden’s original diary is filled with a naturalist’s masterful paintings and delightful observations chronicling the English countryside throughout 1906. As one of the few true records of the time in print, the handwritten thoughts and paintings contained in The Country Diary of an Edwardian Lady transport readers to a more refined, romantic, and simpler time.

Botanicum

Filled with both recognisable, and tropical flora, Botanicum is the ultimate companion guide to the variety of plants, and how they have evolved and grow.

Curiositree: Natural World: A Visual Compendium of Wonders from Nature - Jacket unfolds into a huge wall poster!

Discover the interconnectedness of the natural world and learn why living things look and behave the way they do in a series of visually compelling information charts, maps, and cutaways, all illustrated in a nostalgic, vintage style. Packed with incredible facts about the natural world and the animals that populate it, the whole family will enjoy the full-page spreads grouped into the categories of habitats, species, and adaptations.

Nature Study & Outdoor Science Journal: The Thinking Tree Presents: A Creative Book of Observation, Drawing, Coloring, Writing & Discovery

The Thinking Tree presents: A Creative Book of Observation, Drawing, Coloring, Writing & Discovery Through Nature, ideal for all ages (even adults!)

Creativity and discovery at its best, this journal is a bestseller among The Thinking Tree publications! Your nature-loving student will treasure this journal designed to ignite their wonder of the outdoors. With more than 180 lessons and beautiful illustrations, the Nature Study Journal invites the student to read, write, draw, color, explore and appreciate the outdoors while covering a variety of subjects such as science, poetry, observation instructions, and more.

Also, look at these fun nature study ideas.

FUN NATURE STUDY IDEAS & ACTIVITIES

  • 26 Fun Nature Unit Studies for Multiple Ages
  • Famous and Historic Trees Fun Nature and History Homeschool Unit Study
  • How to Make an Easy Nature Paint Brush With Kids
  • 20 Nature-Inspired Kids’ Novels to Nurture Interest In the Outdoors
  • Kinder Gardening to Celebrate Nature and Science
  • 7 Super Easy Nature Lapbooks Guaranteed to Beat Boredom
  • Above & Below: Pond Unit Study, Hands-on Ideas, & Lapbook
  • Seashore Beach Watching Unit Study and Seashore Lapbook
  • Foraging and Feasting Nature Unit Study and Lapbook
  • Hands-On Nature Study: Bird Color Bar Graphing Activity
  • Free Wildflowers Unit Study & Lapbook
  • Hands-On Mixed Media Flower Art Fun Nature Study
  • Fun Homeschool Unit Study Egg to Sea Turtle Lesson Plans & Lapbook
  • Hands-On Literature Nature Study: Simple Tree Craft
  • Free Arctic Ground Squirrel Lapbook & Unit Study Resources
  • Hands-On Nature Study: Make a Fun Bird Nesting Bag
  • Easy and Fun Nature Study: Beautiful Birds
  • How to Make Easy DIY Bird Feeders With Kids
  • How Animals Cope With the Cold (Easy Nature Study)
  • Free Bird Journal – Hands-on Nature (Coloring & Identification Pages)
  • Homeschool Kindergarten Life Science – Hands-on Fun Nature Tree Study
  • Fun Ice For Kids Inexpensive & Easy Nature Sensory Activity
  • Art of Foraging | How to Make A Dandelion Kids Activity Soap
Fun Nature Study Ideas and a Free Nature Tracker

Finally, grab this free printable with more nature study ideas and free printable tracker.

HOW TO GET THE FREE NATURE TRACKER & IDEAS

Now, how to grab the freebie. It’s a subscriber freebie.

That means when you sign up to follow me, you get my emails in your inbox and you get this freebie.

1) Sign up on my email list.

2) Grab the freebie now.

3) Last, look for all my emails in your inbox. Glad to have you following me!

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, nature, nature study

Free Moon Journal For Homeschool Science

April 29, 2025 | 2 Comments
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, I am sharing this fun free moon journal for homeschool science. Also, look at my page Exploring Space and Astronomy Free Unit Study for Multiple Ages for more ideas.

The Moon is a big, rocky ball that orbits around Earth.

And it is about 1/4 the size of our planet. Too, tt takes the Moon about 27.3 days to go all the way around Earth.

Your kids will love this journal if you want some easy hands-on science.

Besides the fact that we’re loving being back in Texas, I was looking for something that would spur Tiny on to a few more hands-on activities for science.

Hands-on Homeschool Science

So he has been reading through the book Air Is Not Oxygen: Essential Science You Should Have Learned … But Probably Didn’t!.

It has really been a super fun and quick way to learn the essentials of science. Each concept has two or more ideas for hands-on activities to go along with the fact that is being taught.

We just started through it because we needed something more to add to what he is doing right now, which is chemistry.

Too, I like the fact that it is covering basic essentials in a fun and easy way without laboring complicated science facts.

Homeschool Science

He skipped ahead to a few chapters he wanted to read first and though he has read about the moon phases, I thought it would be a fun and uncomplicated activity to keep a moon journal, which is one of the many activities suggested in the book.

I will share a few other activities suggested in the book too.

Free Moon Journal For Homeschool Science
Free Moon Journal For Homeschool Science

So I prepared this quick moon journal.

The first page has the eight phases of the moon and has a place for your child to write his name.

It also has a place for him to record how long he watched the moon.

The second page is an undated page with 31 boxes on it for 31 days to record or one month.

The top blue box above the gray moon is for your child to write the day, like 1, 2, 3,etc.

The middle box which has the moon is a place for him to lightly mark or color the moon and the double dotted line under the box is for him to label or write the name of it too.

I made this so you can use it with both an older and younger child.

Free Moon Journal - Hands on homeschool science.

The younger child can simple shade or color the moon and an older child can write the name of the moon and add other things he may have observed that night or during the month.

Too, look at these books about the moon.

BOOKS ABOUT THE MOON FOR KIDS

12 Resources and Books For Studying About the Moon and Galileo

If you want to focus on the moon in your astronomy and space unit study, add one of these fun resources to your day.

1. Who Was Galileo?

Like Michelangelo, Galileo is another Renaissance great known just by his first name--a name that is synonymous with scientific achievement. Born in Pisa, Italy, in the sixteenth century, Galileo contributed to the era's great rebirth of knowledge. He invented a telescope to observe the heavens. From there, not even the sky was the limit!

2. The Moon Book (New & Updated Edition)

This newly revised edition, available in time for the 50th anniversary of the moon landing, incorporates new, up-to-date information based on recent discoveries, and includes an updated map of the moon's surface. Thoroughly vetted by an astrophysics expert, The Moon Book is a perfect introduction to lunar phases, orbit, the history of space exploration, and more.

3. Galileo and the Magic Numbers

Sixteenth century Italy produced a genius who marked the world with his studies and hypotheses about mathematical, physical and astronomical truths. His father, musician Vincenzio Galilei said, “Truth is not found behind a man’s reputation. Truth appears only when the answers to questions are searched out by a free mind. This is not the easy path in life but it is the most rewarding.” Galileo challenged divine law and the physics of Aristotle, and questioned everything in search of truths. And it was through this quest for truth that he was able to establish a structure for modern science.

4. Moon: A Peek-Through Picture Book

It’s the perfect light nonfiction book for young stargazers—and an ideal bedtime book, ending with a giant moon hovering over a sleepy town hunkered down for bed.

5. Moon Lamp

Novelty Moon Lighting: Realistic Colorful Star Galaxy printed 🌌 Moon Lamp with advanced 3D technology. Now decorate your bedroom, hall, office or desk with our Space Theme gorgeous Galaxy Lamp. Your guests will definitely admire the beauty of this lively moon light.

6. Refracting Telescope for Kids Beginners

Quality Optics: 400mm(f/5.7) focal length and 70mm aperture, fully coated optics glass lens with high transmission coatings creates stunning images and protect your eyes. Perfect telescope for astronomers to explore stars and moon.

7. Jupiter (Planets in Our Solar System)

Everything about Jupiter is big! Its size is big. Even its storms are big! Get the big and small facts about this gas giant that can be seen glowing in the night sky.

8. Galileo Galilei (Genius Series)

Astronomer, physicist, and philosopher Galileo Galilei was referred to as "The Father of Modern Science," because of his groundbreaking research. Making observations about nature, and using mathematics to back them up, he proved the Copernican Theory true: the Sun, not the Earth, is the center of the universe. Join Galileo on his pioneering journey to see why his work had such long-lasting implications, and why the Catholic Church even condemned him for heresy.

9. What the Moon is Like

Imagine that you're walking on the moon. What is it like? For thousands of years people looked up at the moon and wondered about it. Now we know what the moon is like. There is no air on the moon and nothing grows, but there are towering mountains and deep craters—and much more.

Colder than the desert, the hotter than the desert, the moon is an amazing place to explore.

10. A Kite for Moon

What would it be like if the moon was your friend? Find out as you walk alongside a little boy who journeys through life to achieve his dream of becoming an astronaut. And then blast off with your little one as you zoom to the moon together!

The story begins when a little boy, who is flying his kite, notices a sad Moon. He sends up kites to her, writing notes promising he will come see her someday. This promise propels him through years of studying, learning, and training to become an astronaut. Until … he finally goes up, up, up in a big rocket ship with a fiery tail.

A Kite for Moon:

  • Features over 20 gorgeous illustrations by award-winning artist Matt Phelan
  • Is the perfect storybook for children ages 4 to 8
  • Celebrates every child’s fascination with space

11. Large Massive Meteorite Specimen

You could also grab these meteorite specimens (artificial) to let your child use for impact craters!

Moon! Earth's Best Friend (Our Universe, 3)

Meet Moon! She's more than just a rock―she’s Earth’s rock, her best friend she can always count on. Moon never turns her back on her friend (literally: she's always facing Earth with the same side!). These two will stick together forever. With characteristic humor and charm, Stacy McAnulty channels the voice of Moon in this next celestial "autobiography" in the Our Universe series. Rich with kid-friendly facts and beautifully brought to life by Stevie Lewis, this is an equally charming and irresistible companion to Earth! My First 4.54 Billion Years and Sun! One in a Billion.

MORE LEARNING ABOUT THE MOON ACTIVITIES

  • 5 Facts About The Moon Landing and Make Fun Astronaut Ice Cream
  • Free Moon Journal For Homeschool Science
  • Galileo Discovery of Jupiter Moons and Fun Hands-On Moon Crater Experiment
  • Geronimo Stilton Theme Mouse in Space Fun Puffy Moon Craft (Glow in the Dark)
  • 10 Moon Craft Ideas and Wrapped Crescent Moon Craft For Kids

HOW TO GET THE FREE MOON JOURNAL

Now, how to grab the freebie.  It’s a subscriber freebie.

That means when you sign up to follow me, you get my emails in your inbox and you get this freebie.

1) CLICK HERE ON THIS LINK TO SIGN UP ON MY EMAIL LIST & TO GET THIS FREEBIE.

2) Grab the freebie instantly.

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2 CommentsFiled Under: 1. My FREE Learning Printables {Any Topic}, Hands-On Activities, Middle School Homeschool, Science, Subscriber Freebies Tagged With: hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschool, science, sciencecurriculum

Fascinating and Fun Facts About the Life of an Astronaut (FREE PRINTABLE)

April 28, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

You’ll love these fun facts about the life of an astronaut. Grab more ideas on my page Exploring Space and Astronomy Free Unit Study for Multiple Ages.

Being an astronaut is no doubt one of the coolest jobs.

They float around spaceships like they’re swimming.

Fascinating and Fun Facts About the Life of an Astronaut (FREE PRINTABLE)

And besides learning about different subjects like math, engineering and science they have to train super hard.

So, their life is anything but ordinary.

Most astronauts have strong backgrounds in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math).

ASTRONAUT BOOKS

Next, look at these books about astronauts and space.

10 Astronaut Books for Kids Who love to Read and be Read to

Add some of  these books to your reading day or to your home library to learn about astronauts.

An Astronaut's Guide to Life on Earth: What Going to Space Taught Me About Ingenuity, Determination, and Being Prepared for Anything

Travel to space and back with astronaut Chris Hadfield's "enthralling" bestseller as your eye-opening guide (Slate). Colonel Chris Hadfield has spent decades training as an astronaut and has logged nearly 4000 hours in space. During this time he has broken into a Space Station with a Swiss army knife, disposed of a live snake while piloting a plane, and been temporarily blinded while clinging to the exterior of an orbiting spacecraft. The secret to Col. Hadfield's success-and survival-is an unconventional philosophy he learned at NASA: prepare for the worst- and enjoy every moment of it.

Destination Moon: The Spiritual and Scientific Voyage of the Eighth Man to Walk on the Moon

Destination: Moon is the adventurous story of the eighth man to walk on the moon, Colonel Jim Irwin. Discover the rigors of space training and how he almost failed to make the cut. Rejoice with Irwin as he looks back toward Earth and praises the Creator with his moving testimony. Informative and inspiring for all ages. Includes behind-the-scenes stories and many color photos from NASA.

Moonshot: The Flight of Apollo 11 (Richard Jackson Books (Atheneum Hardcover))

Simply told, grandly shown, and now with eight additional pages of brand-new art and more in-depth information about the historic moon landing, here is the flight of Apollo 11. Here for a new generation of readers and explorers are the steady astronauts clicking themselves into gloves and helmets, strapping themselves into sideways seats. Here are their great machines in all their detail and monumentality, the ROAR of rockets, and the silence of the Moon. Here is a story of adventure and discovery—a story of leaving and returning during the summer of 1969, and a story of home, seen whole, from far away.

One Giant Leap: The Story of Neil Armstrong

As a young boy, Neil Armstrong had a recurring dream in which he held his breath and floated high above the people, houses, and cars. He spent his free time reading stacks of flying magazines, building model airplanes, and staring through the homemade telescope mounted on the roof of his neighbor's garage. As a teenager, Neil became obsessed with the idea of flight, working odd jobs to pay for flying lessons at a nearby airport. He earned his student pilot's license on his sixteenth birthday. But who was to know that this shy boy, who also loved books and music, would become the first person to set foot on the moon, on July 20, 1969. Here is the inspiring story of one boy's dream - a dream of flying that landed him more than 200,000 miles away in space, gazing upon the awesome sight of a tiny earth hanging suspended in a perfectly black sky.

Reaching for the Moon

Perfect for the 50th anniversary of the Moon landing in summer 2019!

It’s been fifty years since Buzz Aldrin walked on the Moon. But the journey didn’t begin when he stepped on board Apollo 11 that fateful day in July 1969. It began the day he was born.

This picture book is Buzz Aldrin's story, in his words. Wendell Minor's gorgeous paintings evoke the wonder of space exploration for young readers.

Becoming an astronaut took more than education, discipline, and physical strength. It took years of determination and believing that any goal was possible—from riding a bike alone across the George Washington Bridge at age ten to making a footprint on the moon.

A Hundred Billion Trillion Stars

Did you know that the earth is covered in three trillion trees? And that seven billion people weigh about the same as ten quadrillion ants? Our world is full of constantly changing numbers, from a hundred billion trillion stars in space to thirty-seven billion rabbits on Earth. Can you imagine that many of anything?

The playful illustrations from New York Times–bestselling artist Isabel Greenberg and the friendly, straightforward voice of
author Seth Fishman illuminate some of the biggest numbers in the universe—a hundred billion trillion stars—and the smallest—one unique and special YOU. Here is a book for story time, for science time, for math time, for bedtime, and all the times in between.

A is for Astronaut: Blasting Through the Alphabet (Sleeping Bear Alphabet Books)

Winner! 2019 Nebraska Book Award Retired astronaut Clayton Anderson takes readers on an A to Z flight through the alphabet from astronaut and blastoff to spacewalk and Zulu Time. Topics cover the history of NASA, science, and practical aspects of being an astronaut using fun poems for each letter paired with longer expository text in the sidebars. Perfect for science buffs, budding astronauts, and astronomy lovers of all ages.

Curious George and the Rocket

This lively story captures George’s adventure of becoming the first space monkey from the classic Curious George Gets a Medal.

Armstrong: The Adventurous Journey of a Mouse to the Moon (Mouse Adventures)

But what happened next? Torben Kuhlmann's stunning new book transports readers to the moon and beyond! On the heels of Lindbergh: The Tale of a Flying Mouse comes Armstrong: The Adventurous Journey of a Mouse to the Moon—where dreams are determined only by the size of your imagination and the biggest innovators are the smallest of all. The book ends with a brief
non-fiction history of human space travel—from Galileo’s observations concerning the nature of the universe to man's first steps on the moon.

How We Got to the Moon: The People, Technology, and Daring Feats of Science Behind Humanity's Greatest Adventure

This beautifully illustrated, oversized guide to the people and technology of the moon landing by award-winning author/illustrator John Rocco (illustrator of the Percy Jackson series) is a must-have for space fans, classrooms, and tech geeks.Everyone knows of Neil Armstrong's famous first steps on the moon. But what did it really take to get us there?

Also, look at these fun facts about thee life of an astronaut.

10 FUN FACTS ABOUT THE LIFE OF AN ASTRONAUT

  1. They study engineering, science, medicine, and even Russian, since they often work with international space agencies.
  2. Astronauts sleep in sleeping bags attached to the wall so they don’t float away.
  3. Astronauts typically spend 6 months on the International Space Station (ISS).
  4. Microgravity refers to the condition where gravity seems to be very small. In space, astronauts experience microgravity. Their muscles weaken and their bones lose density.
  5. They work and do experiments in space. For example, they fix parts of the space station, explore more about zero gravity and even how plants grow in space.
  6. Food has come a long way. They can choose their food and it’s on a magnetic tray so it doesn’t float away.
  7. They have to exercise daily for about 2 hours since their muscles weaken.
  8. Space walks can be dangerous so astronauts use tethers so they don’t float away.
  9. Even brushing their teeth is an adventure. They can’t let the water float away. So they use little water and swallow the toothpaste.
  10. When returning to earth rehab and recovery are important since it takes astronauts months to adjust to gravity.
Fascinating and Fun Facts About the Life of an Astronaut (FREE PRINTABLE)

Finally, look at this free printable Pioneering Astronauts to learn about Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, Sally Ride, Valentina Tereshkova and Chris Hadfield.

HOW TO GET THE FREE PIONEERING ASTRONAUTS PRINTABLE

Now, how to grab the freebie. It’s a subscriber freebie.

That means when you sign up to follow me, you get my emails in your inbox and you get this freebie.

1) Sign up on my email list.

2) Grab the freebie now.

3) Last, look for all my emails in your inbox. Glad to have you following me!

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: astronaut, astronomy, hands-on, hands-on activities, handsonhomeschooling, life science

Free Simple List Of Ancient Civilizations | Their Inventions And Discoveries

April 27, 2025 | Leave a Comment
This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please see my full disclosure policy.

Today, I’m sharing a list of ancient civilizations and their inventions and discoveries. Also, look at my page Ancient Civilizations for more ideas, free lapbooks and hands-on activities.

Studying ancient history is not about just studying dates which can be boring.

When we study how ancient people lived, what they invented and how we still use some of them today that makes history important.

Free Simple List Of Ancient Civilizations | Their Inventions And Discoveries

For example, we learn that pyramids, statutes, and paintings were made without modern tools.

In addition, when we read and learn about the ancient inventions and discoveries, then our imagination is stirred to try new ideas.

And understanding different cultures helps us to appreciate other people and their country.

BOOKS TO PAIR WITH A LIST OF ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS

Next, we prefer living books about ancient history when we can find them.

13 ANCIENT HISTORY LIVING BOOKS FOR MULTIPLE AGES

Add one or two of these books to your day for a unit study or add them to your home library for books to keep.

The Children's Homer

It recounts the perilous adventures of Odysseus on his journey back from the war in Troy, including his encounter with the horrible Cyclops, the duplicitous Sirens, and the evil Circe. One of Colum’s many successful children’s novels, these stories will be enjoyed as much today as they were when they first appeared. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper and is wonderfully illustrated by Willy Pogany.

The Arabian Nights

Full of mischief, valor, ribaldry, and romance, The Arabian Nights has enthralled readers for centuries. These are the tales that saved the life of Scheherazade, whose husband, the king, executed each of his wives after a single night of marriage. Beginning an enchanting story each evening, Scheherazade always withheld the ending: A thousand and one nights later, her life was spared forever.

The Golden Goblet

Ranofer wants only one thing in the world: to be a master goldsmith like his beloved father was. But how can he when he is all but imprisoned by his evil half brother, Gebu? Ranofer knows the only way he can escape Gebu's abuse is by changing his destiny. But can a poor boy with no skills survive on the cutthroat streets of ancient Thebes? Then Ranofer finds a priceless golden goblet in Gebu's room and he knows his luck−and his destiny−are about to change.

City of the Golden House

A slave and a cripple, A saint and a Roman officer, An Emperor and a conspirator . . . A city on fire! The events surrounding the burning of Rome and the subsequent Christian persecution provide the backdrop for this story of faith and friendship. A young slave from Britain finds himself in Rome at a tumultuous time. Through his acquaintance with Christians he comes to understand and love the new religion. Out of his zeal for the love of the Christ, he performs a great spiritual work of mercy that sadly goes awry. In the end, God's providence and mercy shine through.

Boy of the Pyramids

The pictured wall of an Egyptian tomb supplied the inspiration for this unusual story, which takes place during the building of the Great Pyramid of Khufu more than 4,000 years ago. Kaffe and Sari, an Egyptian noble's son and a slave irl from the nomadic Sand People of the Sinai region, help solve a troublesome mystery and trap its culprit. All told against a colorfully detailed backdrop of ancient Egypt.

Gilgamesh the Hero

This is one of the oldest stories in the world, and it's about things that still matter to us today: friendship, fame, courage, happiness.Gilgamesh and Enkidu are friends -- best friends. Together they can work wonders, fight monsters, brave earthquakes, travel the world! But waiting in the dark is the one enemy they can never overcome.Retold by award-winning author Geraldine McCaughrean, and illustrated with great power by David Parkins, Gilgamesh the Hero is a story that will linger in the imagination long after the book has been put down.

The Arkadians

Lucian is on the run from a pair of murderous soothsayers. Joy-in-the-Dance knows magic and marvels, and is on a quest. Fronto is a poet-turned-donkey who wants to break the spell that turned him into an animal. The three of them join forces and set out through Arkadia—on an amazing trip that will change their lives. “Master storyteller Alexander keeps the action brisk, packs the text with a riveting collection of weird characters, fantastic settings, plot twists, derring-do, heroes, villains, magic, prophecy, humor, shipwrecks, fires—what more could readers ask for?”—Kirkus Reviews

Archimedes and the Door of Science

Jeanne Bendick, through text and pictures, admirably succeeds in bringing to life the ancient Greek mathematician who enriched mathematics and all branches of science. Against the backdrop of Archimedes' life and culture, the author discusses the man's work, his discoveries and the knowledge later based upon it. The simple, often humorous, illustrations and diagrams greatly enhance the text.Greece, 200 B.C.

The Golden Bull: A Mesopotamian Adventure

A brother and sister's search for a new life and new home . . .5,000 years ago in ancient Mesopotamia during a terrible drought, Jomar and Zefa's father must send his children away to the city of Ur because he can no longer feed them. At fourteen, Jomar is old enough to apprentice with Sidah, a master goldsmith for the temple of the moongod, but there is no place for Zefa in Sidah's household. Zefa, a talented but untrained musician, is forced to play her music and sing for alms on the streets of Ur. Marjorie Cowley vividly imagines the intrigues, and harsh struggle for survival in ancient Mesopotamia.

God King: A Story in the Days of King Hezekiah

A never-before published tale by the author of the best-selling Hittite Warrior carries the reader back to Ancient Egypt and biblical Jerusalem. It is 701 B.C—rule of the Kushite dynasty in ancient Egypt. Young Prince Taharka, a very minor royal son, succeeds unexpectedly to the throne of Kush and Egypt—a "divine" rulership. It's not long, however, before a treacherous plot pushes him into sudden exile and into the hands of Amos, an emissary of King Hezekiah seeking help against the Assyrians. Posing as a medical assistant, Taharka journeys with Amos to Judea where he encounters two kings in conflict. His true identity suddenly uncovered, he must choose with whom he will fight—the mighty Assyrian, Sennacherib, promising alliance, or Hezekiah, the Jew who trusts in Yahweh. A novel inspired by research on the historical King Taharka and his period. Includes an introduction, with home-education suggestions, by Daria Sockey.Egypt and Judea, 700 B.C.

Mara, Daughter of the Nile

Mara is a proud and beautiful slave girl who yearns for freedom in ancient Egypt, under the rule of Queen Hatshepsut. Mara is not like other slaves; she can read and write, as well as speak the language of Babylonian. So, to barter for her freedom, she finds herself playing the dangerous role of double spy for two arch enemies—each of whom supports a contender for the throne of Egypt.   Against her will, Mara finds herself falling in love with one of her masters, the noble Sheftu, and she starts to believe in his plans of restoring Thutmose III to the throne. But just when Mara is ready to offer Sheftu her help and her heart, her duplicity is discovered, and a battle ensues in which both Mara’s life and the fate of Egypt are at stake.

The Boy of the Painted Cave

Tao is an outcast. Unlike the great hunters of his clan, Tao does not want to kill the wild bears or woolly mammoths of the hunt. Instead he wants only to paint them. But only Chosen Ones can be cave painters. What's more, Volt, the clan leader, violently despises Tao. And when the other clan members discover Tao's secret talent, they cast him out into the wilderness alone. There, he befriends a wild wolf dog named Ram, and the mysterious Graybeard, who teaches him the true secret of the hunt.

D'Aulaires' Book of Greek Myths

Here are the greats of ancient Greece—gods and goddesses, heroes and monsters—as freshly described in words and pictures as if they were alive today. No other volume of Greek mythology has inspired as many young readers as this timeless classic. Both adults and children alike will find this book a treasure for years to come.  “For any child fortunate enough to have this generous book . . . the kings and heroes of ancient legend will remain forever matter-of-fact; the pictures interpret the text literally and are full of detail and witty observation.”—The Horn Book

Also, look at a list of ancient civilizations that will get you started.

Too, where possible, I listed some of their inventions.

LIST OF ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS & THEIR INVENTIONS

Mesopotamia

  • The Wheel
  • Cuneiform Writing:

Egypt (Ancient)

  • Papyrus
  • Hieroglyphics

China (Ancient)

  • Papermaking
  • Silk Production

Greece (Ancient)

  • Geometry & Astronomy
  • Democracy

Rome (Ancient)

  • Aqueducts
  • Legal Systems:
Free Simple List Of Ancient Civilizations | Their Inventions And Discoveries

Of course, this is not all of the ancient civilizations and inventions. There are more.

Grab the printable below and look at more ancient civilizations and invention.

HOW TO GET THE FREE LIST OF ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS AND THEIR INVENTIONS & DISCOVERIES

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That means when you sign up to follow me, you get my emails in your inbox and you get this freebie.

1) Sign up on my email list.

2) Grab the freebie now.

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Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: hands on history, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, history

How to Make Salt Dough Bug Fossils & Fossil Definition Kids

April 26, 2025 | Leave a Comment
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We’re learning how to make salt dough bug fossils and learning a fossil definition kids. Also, you’ll love my Amber – Freezing Gold Lapbook and Unit Study.

Sometimes it’s easier to explain a definition like what is a fossil when kids do a hands-on craft.

Learning about bugs in the spring too when bugs seem to be plentiful makes a fun study.

How to Make Salt Dough Bug Fossils & Fossil Definition Kids

When people think of fossils, we think of huge dinosaurs but smaller fossils like bugs can be fascinating.

For example, amber traps bugs like glue. And bugs don’t have bones but their hard shells can still fossilize.

Bug fossils can show tiny details like eyes, wings, and even hair.

BOOKS ABOUT FOSSILS

Next, look at these books about fossils and of course dinosaurs which go hand in hand with learning about fossils

15 Books for Kids Crazy About Fossils and Dinosaurs

Your dinosaur loving kids will love some of these books and resources for a fun dinosaur unit study.

Fossils Tell of Long Ago

What is a fossil? Sometimes it's the imprint of an ancient leaf in a rock. Or it could be the skeleton of a dinosaur that has turned to stone. With clear prose and beautifully detailed illustrations, award-winning author and illustrator Aliki describes the different ways fossils are formed and what they tell us about life on Earth long ago.

This is a clear and appealing science book for early elementary age kids, both at home and in the classroom. It includes a find out more section with a glossary and activity guide so kids can create their own fossils for someone to find a million years from now.

Dinosaurs! (New & Updated)

Gail Gibbons presents the most recent and up-to-date theories about the history of dinosaurs and dinosaur discoveries. She discusses the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods and the non-bird dinosaurs that lived during each time. Each dinosaur is explored in just the right amount of detail for young paleontologists, as this book brings these magnificent creatures to life again

Digging Up Dinosaurs (Let's-Read-and-Find-Out Science 2)

How did those enormous dinosaur skeletons get inside the museum? Beloved author-illustrator Aliki’s simple, engaging text and colorful artwork bring the long-extinct creatures to life for young dinosaur enthusiasts.

Long ago, dinosaurs ruled the Earth. Then, suddenly, they died out. For thousands of years, no one knew these giant creatures had ever existed. Then people began finding fossils—bones and teeth and footprints that had turned to stone. Today, teams of experts work together to dig dinosaur fossils out of the ground, bone by fragile bone

How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight?

A playful peek into the homes of dinosaur babies and their parents at bedtime!How do dinosaurs say good night?Brimming with humor and familiar good-night antics, here is a playful peek into the homes of dinosaur children and their parents at bedtime. Perfect for sharing and reading aloud, this is one nighttime book your own little dinosaur will want to read again and again.

Dinosaur Roar!

A celebratory edition of this much loved classic picture book, now twenty-five years old. This rollicking rhyming text is a joy to read aloud, and the charming and colourful pictures will appeal to the very youngest dinosaur fans. Originally published in 1994, Dinosaur Roar! by Henrietta and Paul Stickland is now seen as a modern classic, a book that every preschool child should have.In the back of the book is a wonderful pull-out poster showing the dinosaur characters.The book carries the endorsement of the Earth Sciences Department at the Natural History Museum.

Dinosaur Bones

With a lively rhyming text and vibrant paper collage illustrations, author-artist Bob Barner shakes the dust off the dinosaur bones found in museums and reminds us that they once belonged to
living, breathing creatures. Filled with fun dinosaur facts (a T. Rex skull can weigh up to 750 pounds!) and an informational "Dinometer," Dinosaur Bones is sure to make young dinosaur enthusiasts roar with delight.

Dinosaurs, Dinosaurs

A long time ago there were dinosaurs. Big dinosaurs and small dinosaurs. Dinosaurs with horns on their heads or spikes down their backs. Dinosaurs with long, long necks and long, long tails. Imaginatively and with a masterful use of color, shape and composition, Bryon Barton brings to life a unique and endearing vision of what the world may have looked like once upon a time.

A long time ago there was dinosaurs. Big dinosaurs and small dinosaurs. Dinosaurs with horns on their heads or spikes down their backs. Dinosaurs with long, long necks and long, long tails.Imaginatively and with a masterful use of color, shape and composition, Byron Barton brings to life unique and endearing vision of what the world may have looked like once up ona time.

Here We Go Digging for Dinosaur Bones

This STEM-friendly musical fossil dig will have dinosaur lovers singing along as they learn the science behind paleontology.

I Dreamt I Was a Dinosaur

If you could be a dinosaur, which would you be? Would you roar like the ferocious T-Rex? Or soar overhead like the pterodactyl? In this playful early-learning book, Stella Blackstone s lyrical, rhyming text takes readers on an unforgettable Jurassic journey, while fabric artist Clare Beaton recreates the prehistoric world of dinosaurs using a colorful array of felt, sequins, beads and buttons.

T Is for Terrible: A Picture Book

I am Tyrannosaurus Rex.

I am a dinosaur,

otherwise known as

a terrible lizard.

Tyrannosaurus rex is a terrible dinosaur; of this, everyone is certain. But is this dinosaur really so terrible? He IS very big and very hungry. True, he might even eat his neighbors for lunch. But from his point of view, he can't help it. After all, he's not a vegetarian . . .

The Shy Stegosaurus of Cricket Creek

Meet George. He's strong, as a giant dinosaur should be, strong enough to wreck a plane! (Of course he thinks it's his old enemy, the flying Pteranodon.) He's loyal. He'll do anything to help Joan and Joey save their mother's ranch at Cricket Creek, even chase a bank robber. He's shy. He's so shy he gets Joan and Joey into hilarious, dinosaur sized trouble!

The Magic School Bus in the Time of Dinosaurs

The classroom is decorated as Dinosaur Land, but Ms. Frizzle-inspired by an archeological dig-craves a more authentic experience. The Magic School Bus turns into a time machine and transports the class back millions of years to an adventure where they learn about dinosaurs, their habitats and diets, and even a Maiasaura nesting ground.

Fossils (A True Book: Earth Science)

Fossils are one of the most important tools we have for learning about long-extinct wildlife.

A True Book: Earth Science series presents fascinating facts and fun activities that will engage the budding earth scientist, while exploring the fields of geology, meteorology, ecology, and more. This series includes an age appropriate (grades 3-5) introduction to curriculum-relevant subjects and a robust resource section that encourages independent study. In the 4.6 billion years since Earth was formed, many plant and animal species have come and gone. Readers will discover how fossils are formed, how paleontologists search for them, and what kinds of information they can provide.

Paleontological Fossils Sample- Paleontology Trilobite Fossil, Scientific Amber Specimen

A box of ten fossils: A box of this paleontological fossil sample contains ten of fossils, including sea clam fossils, trilobites, ichthyodonts, porphyrites, copal amber, graptolites, nematodes, phylloceras, corals, and spirals. Fossil specimen of algae.

Ancient Fossils TOOB - Figurines: Dino Footprint, Giant Crab, Ammonite, Raptor Claw, T-Rex Tooth, Frog Skeleton, Sea Scorpion & More

Step into Prehistory: This Toob contains 10 expertly hand-painted mini figurines of ancient fossils, including a Dinosaur Footprint, Giant Crab, Ammonite, Raptor Claw, Fossilized Frog, Trilobite, T-Rex Tooth, Fossilized Fish, Dinosaur Skin, and a Sea Scorpion.

Next, look at more activities to include with this one.

MORE FOSSIL ACTIVITIES FOR FOSSIL DEFINITIONS KIDS

  • Fun Facts About Mold Fossils & 4 Types of Fossil Activities For Kids
  • Make Fun Edible Fossils and Free Magic School Bus Fossils Worksheet
  • Science Fiction for Middle School Fun Jurassic Park Quick Unit Study (DIY Insect in Amber)

ACTIVITIES ABOUT BUGS AND INSECTS

  • Bugs Facts For Kids And Free Paper Bug Bracelets
  • Free Ant Study
  • Fascinating and Fun Honey Bees Unit Study and Lapbook for Kids
  • 4 Cicada Insect Fun Facts For Kids | How to Make A Cicada Clothespin Craft
  • Free Kids Insect Unit Study
  • How to Make a Fun Ladybug Watercolor Labeled Picture
  • Free Butterfly Unit Study For Kids and Fun Sponge Stamping
  • Fun and Easy Hands-on Life Cycle Butterfly Activity for Kids
  • 8 Insect Fun Facts About Texas For Kids | Easy Dragonfly Craft
How to Make Salt Dough Bug Fossils & Fossil Definition Kids

FOSSIL DEFINITION KIDS

In addition, learn what is fossil definition. A simple definition of what is a bug fossil can be easy to explain.

A bug fossil is the preserved remains or impression of an ancient insect or arthropod. For example, think about spiders and centipedes.

And there are two main ways bugs can become fossils like sedimentary rock fossils and amber fossils

Finally, look at how to make salt dough bug fossils.

HOW TO MAKE SALT DOUGH BUG FOSSILS

First, look at this list of supplies.

  • 1 Cup flour
  • ½ Cup salt
  • ½ Cup water
  • Bowl
  • Spoon
  • Round biscuit cutter (or a cup)
  • Rolling pin
  • Parchment paper
  • Small cooking sheet
  • Plastic bugs
  • Paint (optional)
How to Make Salt Dough Bug Fossils & Fossil Definition Kids

Preheat oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Add flour and salt to the bowl, and stir to combine.

How to Make Salt Dough Bug Fossils & Fossil Definition Kids

Pour the water into the flour and salt mixture.

How to Make Salt Dough Bug Fossils & Fossil Definition Kids

Stir until a dough ball forms.

Knead the dough with your hands until the salt dough is completely incorporated.

How to Make Salt Dough Bug Fossils & Fossil Definition Kids

Place a piece of parchment paper on a flat surface. Use the rolling pin to roll the dough out.

How to Make Salt Dough Bug Fossils & Fossil Definition Kids

Use the round biscuit cutter or a cup to make round cutouts.

How to Make Salt Dough Bug Fossils & Fossil Definition Kids

Remove the extra dough.

Leaving just the cutouts on the parchment paper.

How to Make Salt Dough Bug Fossils & Fossil Definition Kids

Carefully press a plastic bug into the salt dough, then gently remove the bug.

How to Make Salt Dough Bug Fossils & Fossil Definition Kids

Repeat the step above until all the salt dough cutouts have a fossil imprinted.

Carefully place the parchment paper onto the cooking sheet.

Bake for 1 hour. Carefully flip the salt dough cutouts over and continue to bake for an additional hour.

Let the salt dough fossil cool completely before handling. Paint salt dough fossils (if you choose to).

Leave a CommentFiled Under: Hands-On Activities Tagged With: bug, elementary science, hands-on, hands-on activities, handson, handsonhomeschooling, homeschoolscience, insects, life science, science

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